Introduction
Matt Joyce (born March 30, 1972 in La Crosse, Wisconsin) is a former American football guard and tackle who played ten seasons in the National Football League from 1994–2004. He played college football for the University of Richmond.
Early years
Joyce attended New York Military Academy where he practiced football, basketball and track. He was an All-Conference defensive lineman.
He accepted a scholarship from the University of Richmond, where he was a three-year starter at defensive tackle.
Professional career
Dallas Cowboys
Joyce was not selected in the 1994 NFL Draft and was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Dallas Cowboys, with the intention of converting him to the offensive line. He was waived on August 28, but after being claimed by the Cincinnati Bengals and not passing their physical, he was signed to the Cowboys practice squad.
Seattle Seahawks
On March 1, 1995, he signed as a free agent with the Seattle Seahawks and started the first 13 games at left guard. He was released on August 25, 1996.
Arizona Cardinals
On December 2, 1996, he signed as a free agent with the Arizona Cardinals. At the end of the season he was assigned to the Scottish Claymores of the World League of American Football (WLAF).
The next year he started the last 6 games at left guard, after missing the first 7 games with a sprained knee. In 1998, he was a backup and special teams player.
In 1999, he started 9 games at left tackle and the last 6 at left guard, after L.J. Shelton was moved into the starting lineup. The next year he started 13 games at left guard and was inactive 3 games with a back injury.
Detroit Lions
On April 26, 2001, he signed as a free agent with the Detroit Lions. He started 11 games at right tackle and one at left guard. The next year he started 3 games at right tackle and 3 at left guard. In 2003, he started the last 3 games at left guard in place of an injured Eric Beverly
He was released on April 21, 2005, to make room for Kyle Kosier.